ROKETSAN developed ALKA showcased its capabilities combining electromagnetic jamming and laser technologies at the International Best Military Drone Team Competition. The system provides a multi-layered defense solution against unmanned aerial vehicles that can be developed using commercial components and procured at low cost. Operating in Turkey's security forces inventory, ALKA serves to protect military units and critical infrastructure while attracting attention for its export potential.

On today's battlefield, unmanned aerial vehicles have evolved from surveillance platforms into systems capable of direct attack operations. Drones controlled via first-person view (FPV) allow operators to precisely direct targets through camera feeds. These systems threaten a wide range of targets from armored vehicles to command centers, ammunition depots, and personnel areas. Fixed-wing drones offer extended flight duration and approach capability from various distances, while rotary-wing aircraft provide vertical takeoff-landing capability and maneuverability in confined spaces, delivering distinct operational advantages.

ALKA's defining feature lies in integrating electromagnetic jamming and laser destruction capabilities within a single system architecture. The system can engage targets through two different methods depending on target characteristics and operational requirements. Electromagnetic jamming aims to disrupt drone control or navigation processes under suitable conditions, rendering targets ineffective, while laser weapons create physical damage through concentrated energy on the target. During the international competition, ALKA successfully neutralized both fixed-wing and rotary-wing threat types using laser engagement.

ALKA's operational scope extends beyond airborne threats. The system can be employed to neutralize improvised explosive devices and unexploded ordnance. Roadside improvised explosive devices pose serious risks to convoys and logistics elements. Directed energy technologies enable remote engagement with threats under suitable conditions, reducing the need for personnel to approach dangerous areas. This supports the safety of explosive ordnance disposal teams while enabling more controlled operational execution. At the competition, ALKA successfully neutralized a ground-positioned improvised explosive device.

ROKETSAN continues development efforts for ALKA to serve as a laser weapon within the multi-layered air defense system ÇELİKKUBBE. Its proven performance in actual combat conditions makes ALKA a significant component for ÇELİKKUBBE. ALKA's presence in Turkey's security forces inventory and ongoing export discussions underscore the importance of advancing Turkey's directed energy weapons capabilities to the international market.